The Mindset that Sets You Apart: From Average to Elite
A few years ago, I stood before God with a full heart and a surrendered spirit. I said, “Lord, I surrender my thoughts, my eyes, my plans—everything. But I just don’t want to be average.” That prayer has guided my life for over four decades in ministry, business, and leadership. And by God’s grace, that mindset has made all the difference.
Today on Leadership Lifter, we begin a new journey together—a series titled “The Difference Between Elite and Average.” This isn’t just a message for pastors or entrepreneurs. It’s for anyone who wants to live on purpose, lead with conviction, and finish strong in their God-given assignment.
Let’s break down the six core mindsets that separate elite leaders from the average.
1. You’re Never Too Good to Get Better
Peak performers never settle. They are obsessed with growth, always asking, “How can I improve?” Whether you’re in business, education, ministry, or the marketplace, the elite embrace the idea that the largest room in the world is the room for improvement.
Proverbs says, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” Stay teachable. Stay curious. Because average stops growing. Elite keeps going.
2. Do What You Do on Purpose—with Purpose
Purpose changes everything. When you live intentionally, distractions shrink and decisions become clearer. One of our core values at Church on the Rock is: "To lead people to a God who is for them—and help them discover His purpose for their life."
Ask yourself: Do I know my purpose? If you haven’t found it, seek it. And once you do, pursue it with all your heart. Purpose gives you power. Purpose gives you perseverance.
3. Model the Change You Want to See
You’ve heard it said, “By the yard, it’s hard—but by the inch, it’s a cinch.” Elite leaders understand the power of consistency. It’s the small, daily disciplines—the little habits—that lead to massive results over time.
Deuteronomy 7:22 says, “The LORD your God will drive out those nations before you, little by little.” That’s how God works. Step by step. Inch by inch. Celebrate small wins—they build confidence and momentum.
4. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Results
Results matter, but the process gets you there. It’s easy to be discouraged when the goal seems far off. But if you focus on building the right habits, the results will come. The right process creates the right outcome.
Ask yourself: What habits are holding me back? What routines need realignment? Because your habits are the bridge between who you are today and who God is calling you to become.
5. Embrace the Boredom of Consistency
Here’s where many people give up. The elite keep going when the excitement wears off. They build systems. They show up daily. And they know that consistency is the secret sauce of champions.
Joshua 1:8 tells us, “Meditate on the Word day and night… then you will be prosperous and successful.” That’s consistency. That’s discipline. And that’s the difference.
6. Learn from Your Failures
Everyone fails. But not everyone learns. Elite leaders fail forward. They treat failure like chewing gum—chew out the flavor, spit it out, and keep moving. They don’t let failure define them; they let it refine them.
Romans 8:28 reminds us that “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” Even your mistakes can be stepping stones if you’ll surrender them to God.
Conclusion
God never called you to be average. He called you to be excellent. To make a difference. To live your best life—not just a busy one, but a purposeful one.
Let me leave you with this: “Nothing changes until I change.” That’s what Jim Rohn once said, and it altered the course of his life. Maybe today is your change moment. Your wake-up call. Your call to the top.
So let’s go together. Let’s rise above average. Let’s embrace the high-performance mindset that honors God and impacts lives.
Push “like,” share this with a leader in your life, and stay tuned for Part 2 of this powerful series. And remember—you’re not just called to live, you’re called to lead.
